Transitions to adulthood strategy: statement of intent

Why we need a strategy

"I always get really anxious to the point of feeling sick about all transitions. Had to hit rock bottom to get any form of support… it felt like a tick box"

Young Person

There is already well-documented evidence that the planning and support for disabled young people who are making the transition to young adult life could be improved.

In February 2023, the Scottish Government published a literature review of existing Scottish, UK and International evidence on the experiences of disabled young people during their transition to adulthood, taking account of both 'institutional transitions' (e.g. from child to adult services) and 'life-course transitions' (the changes that occur as a result of a young person entering a new life-stage
e.g. leaving school or pursuing independent living).

"Transitions from school can be scary; change is a big thing to navigate, and knowing what it will entail is hard"

Young Person

Findings from the literature review, along with the views of disabled young people and the External Strategic Working Group suggest common experiences of transitions can include:

• Stress and uncertainty for the young person;
• Difficulties transferring from child to adult services;
• Changes in eligibility for services, and support arrangements;
• A sharp drop in support;
• Inadequate transitions planning;
• Lack of clear information about the transitions process;
• Lack of joined-up working (such as communication and collaboration) between services and other partners;
• Inadequate account being taken of young people's capabilities, views, needs and aspirations; and
• Stress and difficulties faced by family members relating to their young person's transition.

In addition, we are currently co-designing Getting It Right For Everyone (GIRFE) with place-based pathfinders across Scotland. GIRFE pathfinders are working across five thematic areas, including young people in transition from GIRFEC to GIRFE. Whilst GIRFE is still being co-designed, insights from the discovery phase echo the common experiences of transitions detailed above.

We want to change this narrative and are determined to make the transitions journey for every disabled young person a smoother and more positive one.